Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic branch of Merck KGaA Germany, celebrates the ‘International Day of Girls and Women in Science 2025’ in collaboration with African First Ladies and partners, including African Ministries of Health, Education, and Academia.
Empowering Women in Science
Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation and a recognized Most Influential African Woman (2019-2024), stated, “At Merck Foundation, we mark this day by actively championing women in the fields of science and technology. Although women have made significant strides, they remain underrepresented. Our goal is to close this gender gap and ensure equal opportunities for women to excel and lead in these domains.”
MARS Awards: Encouraging Research Excellence
Each year, the Merck Foundation introduces the MARS Awards to honor ‘Best African Women Researchers’ and ‘Best Young African Researchers.’ These awards are intended to uplift women and young researchers, enhance their research capabilities, and amplify their contributions to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Recently, Dr. Kelej hosted a virtual Award Ceremony alongside partners such as the Africa Reproductive Care Society, Manipal University, and the African Union Scientific Technical Research Commission to commend African Researchers for their impactful work in empowering women and youth in STEM, particularly focusing on the intersection of scientific research, women’s health, and reproductive care.
Call for MARS Awards 2025 Applications
During the ceremony, the Call for Applications for the MARS Awards 2025 was also announced.
Transforming Healthcare Education
Dr. Kelej highlighted, “In partnership with African First Ladies, we have revolutionized the patient care landscape by offering medical training to young doctors in critical specialties. Of the over 2200 scholarships awarded, approximately 1050 have been granted to women medical graduates, representing nearly 50% of the total Merck Foundation Alumni. This achievement marks a significant milestone for us.”
Commitment to Education and Empowerment
The Merck Foundation firmly believes that education is vital for women’s empowerment and serves as a cornerstone for meaningful change.
“In collaboration with African First Ladies, we have significantly impacted the futures of over 700 deserving African girls by providing scholarships for their education and essential school supplies through our ‘Educating Linda’ initiative in countries like Burundi, Malawi, Nigeria, Zambia, and many more.”
Awareness Campaign and Educational Resources
Additionally, thousands of girls have benefited from our awareness campaigns, which feature inspiring children’s storybooks, animation films, and songs focused on promoting girls’ education and eradicating child marriage,” added Senator Kelej.
Annual Awards for Media and Creative Works
In partnership with African First Ladies, Merck Foundation has also unveiled the 2025 edition of awards celebrating the best media works, films, songs, and design fashions aimed at promoting girl education and raising awareness on critical social issues.
Storybooks and Animation Films for Education
The foundation has created engaging storybooks to highlight the importance of girls’ education and encourage their potential in STEM. These resources are available in English, French, and Portuguese, and have been transformed into animation films to reach broader communities and foster support for girls’ education while combating child marriage.
Television Program Highlighting Girls’ Education
Through the “Our Africa” TV program, Merck Foundation emphasizes the significance of supporting girls’ education. Three out of a total of fifteen episodes are dedicated to this subject. The show has aired on numerous national TV stations across African nations including Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda, showcasing its commitment to this vital cause.
Empowering Through Music
Merck Foundation has released numerous inspirational songs in collaboration with African artists to advocate for girls’ education.
- Watch “Girls Can” featuring Cwesi Oteng and Irene Logan.
- Check out “Like Them” by celebrated Ugandan artist Kenneth.
- Enjoy “Take me to School” by Zambian Afro-soul singer Wezi.
- Listen to “Tu Podes Sim” from Mozambican singers Blaze and Tamyris Moiane.
- Don’t miss “ABC, 123” by Sean K from Namibia.
- Experience “Brighter Day” by Sean K and Cwesi Oteng.
MARS AWARDS 2025 Application Details
The Merck Foundation invites abstracts from final-year African PhD students and young researchers in the following areas:
- Women’s Health
- Infertility and Reproductive Health
Applications should primarily come from African research institutes and universities. The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2025.
Application Process
Interested individuals can apply online or via email at
mars@merck-foundation.com
with their CV and a detailed abstract.
Other Details about MARS Awards
All submissions will undergo peer review, and awards will be distributed in two categories: Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers. Winning applicants will be eligible for research training in a prestigious institution in India. Top winners will also receive invitations to attend the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.
Contact Information
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com
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About Merck Foundation
Established in 2017, the Merck Foundation is committed to enhancing health and well-being through science and technology, especially in underserved communities. Our mission emphasizes building healthcare capabilities, fostering educational opportunities for girls, and empowering individuals in STEM, with a special emphasis on women and youth.
While collaborating with various partners to achieve humanitarian goals, the Merck Foundation remains neutral on political matters and does not participate in elections or political activities, maintaining a focus solely on improving lives and well-being globally.
